New Jersey Man Trapped in the Caribbean After Suffering Severe Head Injury During Vacation

A Hudson County man’s brain damage in the Dominican Republic ruined a New Jersey couple’s holiday. A vacation became a terrible medical battle.

Family says 50-year-old Secaucus resident Guy Rutigliano tripped and injured his head at a Punta Cana pool on October 10. Jennifer brought him to a local hospital after he vomited from the impact. The pair was put back by doctors’ $10,000 pre-treatment fee. The night after getting finances, Guy was admitted for brain bleed operation. The operation reportedly cost over $15,000.

Jen, who stayed with her husband in the hospital, called it “overwhelming.” She stated Guy is in severe pain but recovering after surgery. “He’s exhausted and just wants to see his family and his own doctors back home,” she said, justifying their safe US voyage.

Due to linguistic issues, the family uses translation apps with doctors and nurses. Jennifer struggles for her husband’s treatment despite enormous medical expenditures. On October 15, Jennifer’s sister Aimee Bligh’s GoFundMe campaign garnered approximately $22,000 for rising treatment and medical transport costs. The family is trying but cannot handle the financial strain alone, Bligh added.

Guy, a motorized window covering installer, has four adult children from a previous marriage; Jennifer has two. Guy was helped by her sister and fiancé in Dominican Republic. Jennifer says the couple’s first international vacation was terrible and will be remembered. «This was our first time leaving the nation, and I can guarantee it’s going to be the last», she remarked.

The family contacts the US Embassy concerning medical evacuation. Guy’s stabilization and safe transport to New Jersey to recover with family are their primary goals.

Sources
NJ Advance Media
Family statements and verified fundraising updates